Kenmore Series 700 Dryer Repair Manual

The Kenmore Series 700 Dryer is a high-capacity electric or gas dryer designed for residential use, featuring multiple drying cycles, temperature settings, and advanced moisture sensing. This manual provides essential information for troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of common issues. Below are key sections covering safety, components, diagnostics, repair procedures, and parts replacement.

Safety Precautions

Before attempting any repair, ensure the dryer is unplugged (electric) or gas supply is shut off (gas models). Wear appropriate safety gear.

Model Identification & Specifications

Locate the model and serial number tag inside the door opening or on the back panel.

• Series: 700 (Elite/Heavy Duty).
• Type: Electric or Gas.
• Voltage: 240V AC (Electric), 120V AC for controls.
• Power Requirements: 30 Amp circuit (Electric); 120V, 60Hz for electronics.
• Drum Capacity: 7.0 cu. ft.
• Heating Element (Electric): 5400 Watts.
• Igniter (Gas): Glow-bar type.
• Thermal Fuse: Normally closed, trips at 154°F (68°C).
• Cycle Settings: Auto Dry, Timed Dry, Delicates, Heavy Duty, Air Fluff.

Dryer Components Overview

Key internal parts: Drum, motor, blower, heating system, belts, idler pulley, rollers, thermostat, thermal fuse, moisture sensors, timer/control board.

1. Drive System: Motor, belt, idler pulley, drum rollers.
2. Heating System (Electric): Heating element, thermostats, thermal fuse.
3. Heating System (Gas): Burner assembly, igniter, flame sensor, gas valve.
4. Control System: Timer, electronic control board, start switch, door switch.
5. Venting: Lint filter, exhaust duct, blower housing.

WARNING! Label wires and take photos during disassembly to ensure correct reassembly.

Common Symptoms & Diagnostics

Use this table to identify likely causes before disassembly.

Disassembly Instructions

General steps to access internal components. Procedures may vary by specific model.

1. Unplug dryer or shut off gas and power.
2. Remove top panel: Insert putty knife at front corners to release clips, lift top and prop open.
3. Remove front panel: Open door, remove screws at lint filter opening and along bottom edge.
4. Access drum: Disconnect door switch wires, slide front panel forward and up.
5. Remove drum: Take tension off belt, lift belt off motor pulley, slide drum out.
6. Access rear panel: Remove screws to access heating assembly and motor.

CAUTION! Handle drum carefully to avoid damaging the finish or bearings.

Repair Procedures

Step-by-step for common repairs.

Replacing Drive Belt:

1. Disassemble to access drum.
2. Remove old belt from motor pulley, idler, and drum.
3. Route new belt around drum, then through idler and onto motor pulley.
4. Ensure proper tension; reassemble.

Replacing Heating Element (Electric):

1. Remove rear panel.
2. Disconnect wires from element terminals.
3. Remove mounting screws, remove old element.
4. Install new element, reconnect wires, reassemble.

Replacing Thermal Fuse:

1. Locate fuse on blower housing or heating duct.
2. Disconnect wires, remove mounting screw.
3. Install new fuse, reconnect wires.
4. Test for continuity (should be near 0 ohms).

Replacing Drum Rollers:

1. Remove drum.
2. Remove roller retaining clip and washer, slide off old roller.
3. Install new roller, secure with washer and clip.
4. Lubricate roller shaft with dryer-specific lubricant.

Testing Electrical Components

Use a multimeter set to ohms (Ω) for continuity/resistance tests.

Tip: Always disconnect power before testing. Replace any component not within specification.

Reassembly & Verification

After repair, reassemble in reverse order of disassembly.

1. Ensure all wires are reconnected and routed away from moving parts.
2. Verify belt is properly seated on drum, idler, and motor pulley.
3. Check that drum rotates freely by hand.
4. Reattach panels securely.
5. Restore power/gas supply.
6. Run a test cycle without load to verify operation and listen for unusual noises.
7. Check for heat output (if applicable) and proper cycling.

WARNING! Do not operate dryer without reinstalling all panels and the lint filter.

Maintenance Schedule

Regular maintenance prevents common failures.

• After Every Load: Clean lint filter.
• Monthly: Inspect exhaust vent for lint buildup; clean if restricted.
• Every 6 Months: Vacuum around dryer and inside lint filter cavity.
• Annually: Inspect vent duct for damage or collapse; check drum rollers and belt for wear.
• As Needed: Clean moisture sensor bars (with rubbing alcohol) if auto-dry cycles are inaccurate.

CAUTION! Never operate dryer without a lint filter. A clogged vent is a fire hazard.

Parts List & Ordering

Common replacement parts for Kenmore Series 700 Dryers. Use exact model number for ordering.

Order parts from appliance repair suppliers, authorized Sears/Kenmore parts dealers, or online retailers.

Troubleshooting Flowchart

Quick reference guide for systematic diagnosis.

1. Dryer Won't Start: Check power → Door switch → Start switch → Thermal fuse → Timer/Control Board.
2. No Heat (Electric): Verify dryer runs → Test thermal fuse → Test thermostats → Test heating element.
3. No Heat (Gas): Verify dryer runs → Check igniter glow → Check gas valve click → Test flame sensor.
4. Drum Won't Turn: Check belt → Inspect idler pulley → Test motor capacitor → Test motor windings.
5. Overheating: Check lint filter → Inspect exhaust vent → Test cycling thermostat → Check moisture sensors.
6. Excessive Noise: Identify noise source (front/rear) → Inspect rollers → Check idler pulley → Inspect blower wheel.

Reset: Unplug dryer for 2 minutes to reset electronic controls if display is unresponsive.

Service: For complex issues or gas repairs, contact a qualified technician. Kenmore support: 1-800-469-4668 or visit www.kenmore.com.